The Denver Broncos had to make some key moves this offseason in order to get back into the playoff picture in the 2018 NFL season. Among them was the decision to decline linebacker Shane Ray's fifth-year option.

Rather than sulk on Denver's choice, it appears Ray is using it as an added chip o his shoulder going into the season. According to Ryan O'Hallaran of the Denver Post, his approach has caught the attention of head coach Vance Joseph:

“I’ve been really proud of Shane and how he’s responded,” Joseph said. “He is really motivated. He understands it’s business. And he’s ready for a challenge. He wants to be a great player and, in my opinion, before he got hurt last year [early in training camp] he was on his way to having a great year. I am not surprised that he is motivated and engaged. The ball is in his court. He can earn a lot more than what the option offered him if he goes out there and does what we think he can do.”

Denver's decision not to pick up the fifth-year option admittedly took Ray by surprise considering he expected as much back in April. However, it appears Ray's injury, paired with the Broncos' desire to preserve the cap ultimately led them to take a wait-and-see approach.

The former first-round pick had become an integral piece in Denver's defense up until suffering a wrist injury last season. His best year came during the 2016 campaign when he registered 48 tackles, 8.0 sacks, and a forced fumble. He was also part of the team that defeated the Carolina Panthers in Super Bowl 50.

That said, Ray will be looking to get back to his former self and bounce back with another big year. It will certainly bode well for his chances at a lucrative contract in free agency if Denver is unwilling to pay up.